RESOLUTION NO. 250340
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Sponsor: Mayor Pro Tem Ryana Parks-Shaw
RESOLUTION - Recognizing Black Maternal Health Week and honoring Kansas City-Based Organizations leading the charge for maternal health equity.
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WHEREAS, the United States faces a maternal health crisis, with Black women experiencing maternal mortality rates that are three to four times higher than their white counterparts, regardless of income or education; and
WHEREAS, Black Maternal Health Week (BMHW), observed annually from April 11-17 and founded by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance, serves as a national platform for raising awareness, centering the voices of Black mothers, and amplifying community-driven policy, research, care solutions, and advocacy; and
WHEREAS, the 2025 Black Maternal Health Week theme, “Healing Legacies: Strengthening Black Maternal Health Through Collective Action and Advocacy,” emphasizes the power of perinatal, maternal, and reproductive health organizations and beyond to drive systemic change and foster community healing; and
WHEREAS, Kansas City, Missouri, recognizes the importance of supporting Black maternal health and is committed to addressing the health disparities that affect our communities by uplifting and partnering with local organizations, advocates, and healthcare providers to improve outcomes for Black mothers and families; and
WHEREAS, we honor and uplift the critical work of Kansas City-area organizations such as Aim Well Kids Yoga, Amethyst Place, Birth Circle, Black Doula Collective, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Children's Mercy Hospital, Children's Place, Child Protection Center, Front Porch Alliance, Home State Health, I Support the Girls, Kanbe's, Kansas Birth Equity Network, KC Care, KC Library, KCHD CYSHCN, Labored with Love, Local Doula, N.A.P.S, New Light Family Birth Services, Nurture KC, Parent Leadership Training Academy, Path-Logical, Planned Parenthood R. Wellness, Resource Health, Social Services, Start at Zero, TIES, University Health, Uzazi Village, The Whole Parent Foundation, WIC, and other maternal health advocates whose leadership, vision, and dedication are driving systemic change and advancing equity for Black mothers and birthing people in our region; NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF KANSAS CITY:
That the Mayor and Council hereby recognize the week of April 11-17, 2025, as Black Maternal Health Week in Kansas City, Missouri; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution be spread upon the Minutes of the Council in testimony thereof and that a copy hereof be presented to maternal health advocates with the appreciation of the Mayor and Council for the outstanding leadership on supporting Black maternal health and addressing the disparities.
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